Temples & religious sites
Nyatapola Temple
Overview
Nyatapola Temple is a five-story pagoda in Bhaktapur, Nepal. Built between 1701 and 1702, it is the tallest traditional structure in the country. Travellers visit to see its multi-tiered architecture and the stone guardian figures lining the stairway. The building has notably survived several major earthquakes.
Getting There
Located in Bhaktapur, the site is roughly 13 kilometres east of central Kathmandu. Travel by taxi or bus takes 45 to 75 minutes depending on traffic. From Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), driving takes about 40 minutes.
Time to Allow
Plan for 30 to 45 minutes to inspect the architecture and climb the stone stairway, or up to an hour if exploring the immediate plaza.
When to Go
Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit for cooler weather and fewer people. The square becomes crowded during the middle of the day and on weekends. Autumn and spring offer drier conditions than the summer monsoon.
Nearby Attractions
Consider combining a visit with these nearby locations:
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square (0.1km): Historic royal complex located adjacent to the square.
- Suryavinayak Temple (1.8km): A Hindu temple situated to the south.
- Doleshwor Mahadeva Temple (3.7km): A religious shrine located southeast in the hills.
- Changu Narayan Temple (5km): An ancient hilltop temple complex to the north.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors